Magazine for Snowshoers Launches

Snowshoe Magazine recently launched its website and revealed
plans for a print magazine in the future.
Snowshoe Magazine is endorsed by the United States Snowshoe Association.
It's a wholly owned and operated product of Alford
Publishing, Inc., based in Denver, Colorado. Alford Publishing, Inc., and Snowshoe
Magazine are created and maintained by Ryan Alford and Graphic Designer/Web Developer,
Curt Barnickel.

"Snowshoers and potential snowshoers want the latest information on gear, events and
where to go. We'll provide all this and more for people throughout the world and at
the same time we're giving a new voice to the industry," said Publisher Ryan Alford.
"There's nothing about snowshoeing that's so wide-ranging in print or on the Web. We
want to help this sport grow."

Alford anticipates a print version within three years. He's targeting three kinds of
readers -- racers/ competitors, backcountry enthusiasts/casual hikers, and
beginners/first-timers -- with original content on destinations, equipment, health/fitness,
races and tours, and environmental protection.
Tom Sobal, a decorated athlete and snowshoeing guru, will provide a monthly column that aims to
provide snowshoers with tips on how to better their experience.

Born into existence more than 6,000 years ago, snowshoes were used as a means of
transportation. Once constructed with wood and cowhide, snowshoes provided a way to
"float" on deep snow and allowed an easier method of traversing across frozen terrain.
Modern-day snowshoeing is far different. Now constructed with aluminum and other tough
outdoor materials, people find snowshoeing to be a great way to stay healthy during the
winter months. Through the sport's popularity in northern United States, Alaska
and other worldwide destinations, competitions have sprung up to cater to runners
and fitness enthusiasts. Snowshoeing is also on the verge of becoming an Olympic sport.